The Corporate Practice of Medicine (CPOM) framework in Maryland ensures that clinical decisions remain under the control of licensed physicians, safeguarding patient care and maintaining ethical healthcare operations. For healthcare organizations and providers, understanding and adhering to CPOM regulations is critical to avoiding legal risks and achieving sustainable growth in 2025.

Maryland’s CPOM framework is key to structuring a compliant healthcare practice in 2025. Access Plus Health provides expert guidance on navigating ownership restrictions and operational requirements. Let us help you align your practice with Maryland’s legal standards while focusing on patient care.

1. Key Elements of Maryland’s CPOM Framework

Maryland’s CPOM laws emphasize the following principles:

• Physician Control: Clinical decisions must not be influenced by corporate or financial interests.
• Ownership Flexibility: Non-physicians can own practices, provided they do not interfere with medical decision-making.
• Transparency: Financial arrangements and governance structures must comply with state and federal regulations, including anti-kickback statutes.

2. Compliance Requirements

Healthcare providers in Maryland must address several areas to ensure compliance:

• Licensure:
  
  • Physicians must hold valid Maryland medical licenses, particularly for telehealth services.
• Financial Transparency:
  
  • Revenue-sharing agreements must adhere to fair market value and avoid incentivizing referrals.
• Data Security:
  
  • Compliance with HIPAA standards is mandatory for protecting patient information.

3. Best Practices for Compliance

To align with Maryland’s CPOM laws, healthcare organizations should:

• Establish Clear Governance:
  
  • Define roles for clinical and administrative staff to protect physician autonomy.
• Draft Compliant Contracts:
  
  • Ensure agreements prioritize clinical independence and adhere to CPOM principles.
• Conduct Audits:
  
  • Regularly review operations and financial arrangements to identify compliance risks.
• Educate Staff:
  
  • Provide training on CPOM regulations and the importance of maintaining ethical standards.

4. Preparing for Future Regulations

As healthcare evolves, Maryland’s CPOM laws are expected to adapt. Key areas of focus include:

• Telehealth Oversight:
  
  • Enhanced licensing requirements and reimbursement models.
• AI Integration:
  
  • Guidelines for the ethical use of AI in clinical operations.
• Health Equity Initiatives:
  
  • Mandates addressing healthcare disparities and improving access to care.

Understanding Maryland’s CPOM framework is essential for healthcare providers seeking to operate ethically and effectively in 2025. By implementing proactive compliance measures and preparing for regulatory changes, organizations can protect physician autonomy, build patient trust, and ensure long-term success.